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#083: Better Together: The MWInns and MBBA Merger with Kerri Thiel, Randy Bangs and Mikki Suchomel

#083: Better Together: The MWInns and MBBA Merger with Kerri Thiel, Randy Bangs and Mikki Suchomel

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The Midwest Association of Independent Inns (MWInns) and the Michigan Bed & Breakfast Association (MBBA) have officially merged.

Kerri Thiel (Retiring Executive Director), Mikki Suchomel (Incoming Executive Director), and Randy Bangs (Board VP and Marketing Chair) discuss how this strategic move expands resources, strengthens advocacy, and creates new opportunities for regional growth.

We also highlight their first joint event, InnSight 2025, taking place October 26 to 28 in Holland, MI.

We are very thankful to Kerri, Randy, and Mikki for sharing their insights with us. You can learn more about the MWInns at mwinns.com. You can also register to attend the conference at mwinns.com/mwinns-conference-trade-show.

Why B&B Owners Shouldn’t Skip Regional and National Conferences

Why B&B Owners Shouldn’t Skip Regional and National Conferences

Running a B&B can feel all-consuming—but stepping away to attend an industry conference might be the smartest move you make all year.

Whether it’s a state or regional association gathering or a national one, these gatherings are packed with opportunities that can directly impact your bottom line and long-term success.

  1. Stay Ahead of Trends
    From changes in guest expectations to the latest in booking technology, conferences give you a front-row seat to what’s happening now—and what’s next—in the hospitality world.
  2. Find Solutions Faster
    Looking for a new PMS, laundry service, or marketing strategy? Instead of sifting through reviews online, you can talk directly with vendors, ask questions, and compare tools all in one place.
  3. Learn from the Best
    Workshops and keynotes are led by experienced innkeepers, consultants, and hospitality pros who’ve been where you are. Their insights can save you time, money, and headaches.
  4. Recharge Your Passion
    Burnout is real. Connecting with peers who understand your challenges can be incredibly energizing. You’ll return home inspired and re-focused.
  5. Grow Your Network
    The relationships you build at conferences often turn into valuable partnerships, referrals, and support systems throughout the year.

Bottom line? Conferences aren’t time away from your business—they’re time invested in making it better.

#082: Mastering Revenue Management: The Art and Science of Pricing with Scot Fuller-Beatty, Founder of The Bold Collaboration

#082: Mastering Revenue Management: The Art and Science of Pricing with Scot Fuller-Beatty, Founder of The Bold Collaboration

Pricing is one of the most powerful tools innkeepers have, but getting it right is both an art and a science.

Scot Fuller-Beatty, Founder of The Bold Collaboration, discusses how to master revenue management through smart pricing strategies and well-timed promotions. Scot also offers practical advice for crafting promotions that increase occupancy and drive profitability.

We are very thankful to Scot for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about The Bold Collaboration at theboldcollaboration.com.

Billion Dollar Gold Mine: Women Travelers 50+ Are Reshaping the Travel Industry

Billion Dollar Gold Mine: Women Travelers 50+ Are Reshaping the Travel Industry

For years, Millennials have been seen as the “sweet spot” for travel brands—and with good reason. As the largest generation in the workforce, they’re projected to spend a staggering $268 billion on travel in 2025 alone.

But there’s another powerhouse demographic quietly—and steadily—transforming the travel landscape: women aged 50 and older.

According to a report sponsored by Collette Travel, Intrepid Travel, and Aurora Expeditions, this group represents a multi-billion dollar gold mine. In the U.S. alone, women 50+ wield $214 billion in travel spending power—a figure expected to soar to $519 billion by 2035. Even more telling: 40% of women travelers today are over the age of 55.

These women are not only traveling—they’re shaping the future of travel.

They’re fueling trends like:

Cultural immersion over sightseeing
Off-season and shoulder-season travel for fewer crowds and deeper engagement
Longer stays and slow travel to connect more meaningfully with destinations
Exploration of lesser-known locales rather than the typical top-10 list

As Doni Belau, founder of Girls’ Guide to the World, puts it, “Fifty years ago, it was frowned upon for women to travel alone. They were expected to have a companion or husband to look after them. That mindset has changed.” And the travel industry is changing with it.

Today’s 50+ female travelers are confident, curious, and eager to explore on their own terms. They’re less interested in packaged itineraries and more focused on authentic, enriching experiences that connect them to the culture and community of a place.

So, how can you tap into this powerful market?

Start by providing what they value most:

Personalized, curated local experiences that go beyond tourist traps
• Opportunities for connection—with locals, nature, and culture
Wellness offerings like yoga retreats, spa services, or healthy culinary options
Safe, comfortable accommodations with solo traveler-friendly touches
• And most importantly: ease of access to local recommendations and experiences

With the Frictionless Guest App, lodging providers can deliver just that—offering curated, local experiences tailored to the interests of guests, especially those seeking more than just a place to stay.

This is not a niche audience—this is a growing, motivated, and underserved market segment ready to engage, explore, and invest in experiences that matter.

Now is the time to meet them where they are.

#081: Tactical and Practical Tax Tips with Tyler Otto, Owner of Specialized Accounting

#081: Tactical and Practical Tax Tips with Tyler Otto, Owner of Specialized Accounting

Taxes might not be the most exciting part of running a property, but smart tax planning can be a game changer.

In this episode, Tyler Otto, Owner and President of Specialized Accounting, provides often overlooked “tactical and practical” tax tips. We also had fun talking about tax planning and uncovering real-world tips you can apply right away.

We are very thankful to Tyler for sharing his insights with us. You can learn more about Specialized Accounting at specializedat.com.